Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Vastseliina, Estonia, where the climate can expose you to varying levels of ultraviolet radiation throughout the day. Monitoring UV levels is key to preventing sunburn and protecting skin health, as even moderate exposure can lead to long-term damage. With a climate classified as Dfb, Vastseliina experiences significant UV exposure, particularly during peak hours from 11 AM to 3 PM, when values can soar to 7. Being aware of these levels helps you enjoy the sun safely while minimizing risks to your skin.
As the sun rises, the UV Index (UVI) begins its ascent, starting with a mild level of 1 at 7:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it reaches a level 3, indicating an increase in solar intensity. The real peak occurs at noon when the UVI hits a robust 7, representing the highest risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. This high intensity persists until 3:00 PM, when it gradually recedes to a level of 6. As the afternoon wanes, the UVI dips further, dropping to 5 at 4 PM and finally back to a gentle 1 by 7 PM, allowing for a safe and comfortable evening. Remember, the hours between 10 AM and 3 PM mark the most crucial times for sun safety!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, with notable seasonal changes impacting both residents and visitors. From January to February, the UV Index remains low (1-2), allowing for a burn time of 45 minutes, making skin protection less critical. March and April see a moderate rise (UV Index 3-4) with a reduced burn time of 30 minutes, suggesting that some protective measures are advisable during outdoor activities. The risk peaks in the high-risk months of May through August, where the UV Index reaches between 6 and 7, and burn time drops to just 25 minutes—strongly advising the use of sunscreen, protective clothing, and hats. As the year transitions into September with a moderate UV Index (4), and then back to low levels from October to December (1-2), residents should be reminded that vigilance is key during these warmer months to avoid skin damage while enjoying the outdoors.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tallinn UVI | 1 | 1 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Kohtla-Jaerve UVI | 1 | 1 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Narva UVI | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Paernu UVI | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Tartu UVI | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Vastseliina | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 |